No one's POV

Running straight through the middle of a vast plain was a road that ran due north. Though it was called a road, it was more a path that had been paved into a highway by centuries of footfalls. As the carriages of this world didn't have any suspensions, travelers often found themselves nursing sore bottoms by the end of their trip.

And yet, two silhouette were rushing down this rugged road at a speed unthinkable for how poorly maintained it was. A black frame with two wheels, and three passengers sitting atop of one and two passengers on the other.

Sora, Aishia, Hajime, Yue, and Shea. They were pounding down the uneven road at a speed many times faster than when they had been traveling through Reisen Gorge. They were easily doing eighty kilometers an hour. They were sitting in the same formation as always. Aishia's on Sora's lap, with Shea sitting behind him. Shea's bunny ears were rippling in the wind.

Shea: Haau, it feels great. Aishiaaaaaa. Can we switch spots on the way back?

Aishia: No. This is my spot.

Shea: Come on, don't be stingy. Let's swap. It's pretty nice back here too you know.

It was clear from Shea's relaxed tone that she didn't really care if she got to switch or not. Sora turned around and answered in Aishia's place.

Sora: You know there's no way you'd be able to fit here, right? You'd get in the way of my driving. Those rabbit ears especially. They'd keep flopping around in the wind and hitting my eyes.

Shea: Oh yeah, you're riiiiiight.

Aishia: She actually fell asleep.

It appeared the weather was so pleasant that Shea had dozed off. Her head drooped forward, landing on Sora's shoulder. The rest of her body weight was pressed against his back. She'd already been half-asleep when she'd called out to Aishia.

Sora: Well at this rate I'd say we've got about half a day's travel left. We'll be driving nonstop, so might as well let her rest while she can.

As Sora had said, they were about half a day's ride out from the lakeside village that sat at the foot of the mountain range. If they kept this pace they'd arrive by evening. Hajime's plan was to spend the night in town and begin searching the next morning.

The reason he was in such a rush was because the longer he took, the more likely it was that Will and his party might be dead. Yue looked up at him questioningly. It was unusual for Hajime to take such a vested interest in the life of someone he didn't care about.

Hajime met her inquisitive gaze and smiled wryly at her.

Yue: Why the rush?

Hajime: Well, better we find him alive right? That way Ilwa will feel even more indebted to us. From here on out I'm sure we're going to get into a lot more fights with the Heiligh Kingdom and the Holy Church. So the more allies we have the better. It'd be a pain to have to fight every time we want to go anywhere.

Yue: I see.

That being said, Hajime wasn't sure how useful Ilwa would prove as an ally. In fact, he thought it was more likely Ilwa wouldn't be of much help at all. But it never hurt to have extra assistance. Especially considering how little effort it would take to recruit Ilwa to their cause.

Hajime: Oh yeah, I heard the village we're going to sits next to a lake, so they have a lot of water available. Apparently thanks to that they've become the largest cultivator of rice on the continent.

Yue: Rice?

Sora: Yep, rice. You know, that white grain. That I always made when we were living in the stone house. It's my homeland's staple crop. I'm not sure if the rice here is the same as the one from home, but I want to try it.

Aishia: Mmm. I want to try it now too... What's the town's name?

Aishia smiled as she watched Sora reminisce fondly about his hometown.

Sora: The lakeside town of Ur.

(Timeskip)

The five of them continued making their way through the town, eventually finding their way towards the restaurant that had rice, and along the way, Shea was fussing at Sora, as they entered the restaurant.

Shea: How many times do I have to ask you? Will you stop excluding me to retreat into your own little world? Do you hear me? Sora?

Sora: I hear you, I hear you. And I rather you stayed at a different room, because after your last stunt, on how you suddenly sneak into my bed, I'm even more against us sharing room. If you continue to do this, me and Hajime will be on the same room, while you three girls on the other.

Shea: Sheesh! Did you hear that, Aishia, Yue? Sora's being so cruel to me!

Aishia: Sora, you've been a bad boy.

Yue: Yeah. Sora... you meanie!

Sora: Yeah, yeah.

The five of them sat down at a table, when suddenly, someone ran over to their table, and that person was Aiko. Immediately looking at Sora and Hajime, which surprises them.

Aiko: Yatagami? Nagumo?

Sora and Hajime: Sensei?

They looked very different from the Sora and Hajime that Aiko remembered. Not just their appearance, but even their demeanor felt different. The Hajime Aiko knew was a gentle, mature individual who always seemed to be spacing out in class. She had always thought that awkward smile he wore when people talked to him suited him well. While the Sora Aiko knew was a loyal guy. He diligently worked to improve himself for years. He took up martial arts known as the Karasuki style after moving in with his grandfather as a kid, and worked at it for years until he became a master.

However, the two boys in front of him were different. Hajime had a gaze as sharp as a hawk's, making it difficult to approach him. While Sora had become even more calming, and look like quite the scheming person. They were so different from how Aiko remembered them that had they just passed each other on the street, she definitely would not have recognized them.

Still, close inspection revealed that their facial features and voice closely resembled the same Sora and Hajime she remembered. And more than anything... they had called her Sensei.

That was what made it certain. Even if their appearance and the way they carried themselves had changed, the two boys standing in front of her was none other than her student, Sora Yatagami and Hajime Nagumo.

Aiko: Yatagami? Nagumo? It really is you, isn't it, Yatagami? Nagumo? I'm so glad you're both alive...

Sora: Uh no, you must have mistaken us for someone else. Bye.

Aiko: Huh?

It was a miraculous reunion with the student she'd thought long dead. Tears sprung to Aiko's eyes. "What were you doing all this time? What happened to you? I'm so glad you're alright!" There were a mountain of things she wanted to say, but she couldn't get the words out. And yet, all Sora replied with was a curt dismissal.

Aiko let out a confused mutter. Even her tears seemed to retreat back into their ducts. But when Sora started walking toward the inn's exit, she suddenly returned to her senses and chased after him. She grabbed him by the sleeve and tried talking to him.

Aiko: Wait just one minute! It's definitely you, isn't it, Yatagami? Nagumo? You two called me Sensei just now! There's no way you could be anyone else.

Hajime: No really, you just misheard us. I just... said stunted, in a really thick accent. Yeah.

Aiko: Excuse me, who are you calling short!? I'll have you know that's very rude! And that's the worst excuse I've ever heard. Why did you try to trick me? And that arm and that eye... What exactly happened to you Nagumo? You too, Yatagami! What happened to your hair, and what's with those scars? What have you been doing until now? And why didn't you come back to us? Answer me, Yatagami! You can't fool your teacher!

Aiko's shouting echoed throughout the inn. Most of the other diners were watching curiously, wondering what their fertility goddess was doing with this guy. The rest of the students and knights filed out of their little alcove as well.

The students', Yuka, Taeko, Nana, Atsushi, Noboru, and Akito all jaws all dropped when they saw Sora and Hajime. They were shocked not just at the fact that they were still alive, but at how radically different they looked too. Unsure of what to do or say, they just stared.

Yuka: Yatagami...

Nana: That's Yatagami and Nagumo? They look like a completely different person.

Taeko: No, it is a different person. Who are they? There's no way Yatagami could be that handsome!

Nana: Wha?! Taeko!!

Though Sora seemed to be reacting to all this calmly, he was panicking internally. Even in his wildest dreams, he hadn't expected to run into his old teacher and classmates while out on a quest for the branch chief. His shock was what had led him to accidentally let slip that first "Sensei," all but sealing his fate.

Fortunately, his partner came to his rescue. Aishia walked up to Sora, wrapped her arm around him, and forcibly pulled Aiko's arm off. David and the other knights glared daggers at her.

Yue: Get back. You're bothering them.

Aiko: And who are you? I'm trying to have an important talk with my students...

Aishia: Then calm down a little.

Aiko faltered a little in the face of Aishia's and Yue's cold stare. Yue and Aiko wasn't too much of a difference in their height. It would have looked like three girls fighting, but Aiko always acted like she was much younger than she was, while Aishia's Yue's age gave them an air of maturity. And so, it actually looked more like two adults scolding a kid. Trying to maintain some semblance of dignity, Aiko straightened her back and squared her shoulders... but the effect was less than impressive.

Aiko: I lost my composure. Let's try this again. You're Yatagami and Nagumo, right?

Aiko spoke quietly, but with conviction. Her gaze was focused solely on Sora and Hajime. Especially Sora. Seeing her expression, Sora and Hajime realized she'd chase after them no matter what they said, so Sora just scratched his head, sighed, and told her the truth.

Sora: Yeah, it's us.

Hajime: Long time no see, Sensei.

Aiko: It's really, really you... You two were alive.

Sora: Yeah. Some stuff happened, but we managed to made it out alive.

Aiko: Thank god. Thank god you're alive.

Sora didn't respond. Instead, he walked over to a nearby table and sat down. Hajime, Aishia, Yue and Shea followed suit, though Shea was still a little confused. Aiko and the others looked at him blankly. It looked like Sora had regained his composure for real now. He beckoned to Foss the chef, who was standing behind Yuka and David, watching the proceedings with great interest.

Shea: Umm, Sora, Hajime. Are you sure you both should be ignoring her? These are your friends, right? This is just a guess... but these are people from your old world, right?

Hajime: So what?

Sora: We were a little surprised to see them here, but that's about it. We came here to eat dinner, so let's order our food. I was looking forward to trying the food here.

Hajime: And did you know? They have curry... Wait, you wouldn't know what that is. They have this thing called Nilchissle here, it's supposed to be really spicy. I hope it tastes like I think it will.

Yue: Then I'll get that too. I want to know what kind of food you like, Hajime.

Aishia: Sora's favorite food is my favorite food.

Shea: Well, I guess I'll get that too, then. Sir, we'd like to order.

At first Shea had glanced nervously over at Aiko and the others, but she stopped paying them any mind after Sora had said it was fine. Foss walked over, wearing an awkward smile, and Shea began ordering. Of course Aiko wasn't done yet. The nonchalance with which Sora had sat down had struck her dumb for a moment, but once she returned to her senses she briskly walked up to Sora's table and angrily slammed her hands down.

Aiko: I'm not done talking to the two of you. The hell do you think you're doing, ordering food like it's nothing? First off, who are these girls?

Aiko's words echoed the sentiments of everyone present. The knights, who'd finally put together the fact that Sora and Hajime were the missing student thought to have died, also nodded in agreement. The reality of their survival finally hit Yuka and the other students as well. Still shaken, they quietly waited for their reply.

Hajime furrowed his brow in annoyance. Knowing Aiko, she wouldn't give up until he gave her an answer. He wanted to be able to eat in peace, so reluctantly looked back up at her.

Sora:...

Hajime: We accepted a request to come here from Fuhren. We've been traveling nonstop, so at least let us eat before I tell you what happened. Oh, and these three are...

Hajime glanced over at Yue, Aishia, and Shea, who introduced themselves before he could.

Yue: Yue.

Aishia: Aishia.

Shea: I'm Shea!

Yue: I'm Hajime's lover!

Aishia and Shea: I'm Sora's lover!

Aiko: L-Lover?

Aiko glanced back and forth between Sora and Aishia and Shea. She was having trouble processing what they'd just said. Behind her, Nana and Taeko let out gasps of surprise. Atsushi and the other guys just stared, slack-jawed. Yuka stiffened up, as if she'd been hit by a bolt of lightning.

Sora: Hey, Aishia can say that, but you most definitely are not, Shea. Our relationship is nothing but friends. No more than that.

Shea: I can't believe you Sora! That's so mean! You even stole my first kiss!

Sora: How many times do I have to tell you? That was just C—

Aiko: Yatagmi?

Sora: What is it, Sensei?

At Shea's mention of Sora stealing her first kiss, Aiko finally recovered enough say something. Her voice was low, and her expression made it clear that she'd misunderstood something. She seemed to be thinking Sora had these two girls waiting on him hand and foot. Her face was bright red, but her eyes were glimmering with determination. Determination to bring her wayward student back on the path of righteousness. And so, Sensei's Wrath struck Sora in this peaceful town of Ur.

Aiko: N-Not only did you steal a girl's first kiss, you're also two-timing!? Is the reason you didn't come back to us because you were too busy flirting with these girls!? In that case... I'll never forgive you! As a teacher, I cannot forgive you! You're getting lecture! I'll fix that twisted personality of yours right now, Yatagami!

Sora: -_-

Sora just sighed deeply, an exasperated expression on his face.

(Timeskip)

Thanks to Aiko's outburst, the other customers started staring too, so Sora and the others moved to the privacy of the VIP table. Aiko, Yuka, and the other students all peppered them with questions, but Hajime's mind was on the Nilchissle he was hoping to eat for dinner, so Sora's the one who answered, but kept his answers as brief as possible.

Aiko: In any case, I'm glad you two were alright. But what happened after that?

Sora: We went through hell.

Aiko: Why are your appearances so different?

Sora: Because we went through hell.

Aiko: What's with those scars on your neck?

Sora: We went through even more hell.

Aiko: Why didn't you come back to us right away?

Sora: Because we didn't have a reason to.

Aiko: Give me actual answers!

Fed up with his responses, Aiko puffed out her cheeks and yelled angrily. Though she didn't look intimidating in the slightest. As always, Sora just took it all in stride. He didn't even meet Aiko's gaze, and instead continued tearing through his Nilchissle, sometimes commenting on this or that to Yue and Shea. He looked extremely satisfied.

Unable to take his offhanded treatment of Aiko any longer, David started yelling at Sora too. The power of love was quite something. He even slammed his fist down on the table for added effect.

David: Hey, brat! Aiko's asking a question! Answer her properly!

Sora glanced over at David, then breathed another sigh.

Sora: We're eating here.

Hajime: Mind your manners.

David reddened with anger. Not only was he a templar knight, he was one skilled enough to be tasked with the mission of guarding Aiko. And yet, Hajime had brushed him off without even a second thought. Realizing neither Sora nor Hajime weren't willing to humor him in the slightest, David changed his angle of attack. He looked over at Shea and let out a string of insults.

David: Mind my manners? I think you should be the one minding your own manners! You need to learn how to speak properly to your superiors! And what are you doing, sharing a table with a filthy beast man? At the very least, let me cut off those horrid ears of yours. Then you'll at least look human.

Shea fidgeted uneasily under his disdainful glare.

Back in Brooke, because of Catherine, the first impression she'd given people when she'd entered the Masaka Inn, and Sora's own presence, most people had treated her with respect. A few people had glared disapprovingly at Fuhren, but no one had tried to heckle her directly, as it was a crime to harm another's slave.

In other words, this was the first time she'd felt the full brunt of people's hatred and discrimination toward beastmen directly. She thought she'd no longer cared about what strangers thought of her, but David's blatant malice hurt her more than she'd expected. Hence why she lowered her gaze.

It wasn't just David either. Upon closer inspection, it was evident the other knights were glaring hatefully at her too. No matter how nice they acted toward Aiko or the other students, they were still templar knights. Their ties to the Holy Church and Heiligh meant they held the beastmen in contempt. In fact, their hatred was even stronger than regular humans, since it was the Holy Church's teachings that claimed beastmen were inferior beings.

Their way of thinking had become less rigid by interacting with Aiko and the others, but such a deeply ingrained sense of values couldn't be so easily overturned.

Aiko opened her mouth to protest the knights' harsh words, but before she could say anything, Aishia and Yue took Shea by the hand and shot them a stare colder than death itself.

The withering intensity of her gaze caused David to flinch back for a moment, but the fact that he'd cowered before a little girl, even if only for an instant, only made him angrier.

David wasn't normally someone who'd snap this easily, but Aiko's reproachful gaze made him touchier than usual.

David: What's that look for? Insolence! You two are no Apostle; how dare you disobey an order from a member of the templar knights?!

Chase quickly stood up to restrain his commanding officer, but before he could, Aishia's and Yue's voice echoed clearly through the chaotic din.

Yue: What a small man.

Aishia: And a pathetic one at that.

Every word dripped with scorn. Neither Aishia nor Yue couldn't believe someone could be so intolerant about something as irrelevant as race. Having already lost his composure, Aishia's and Yue's disdain only served to drive him further into a frenzy.

David: You damn heretic. I'll send you to hell along with that beast you love so much.

He put a hand over his sword. Yuka and Atsushi reached for their own weapons, while Aiko and Chase tried to calm David down with words. However, David was beyond words now. He made to draw his sword, but before he could...

Bang! The nose reverberated throughout the Water Sprite Inn, and his head jerked back. His whole body was sent flying from the force, and he crashed into the wall behind him headfirst. The whites of his eyes were visible as he slid to the ground in a crumpled heap. His sword clattered to the floor next to him a second later.

No one could understand what had just happened. Everyone just stared blankly at the ground where David lay. Startled by the sound, Foss hurriedly opened the curtain to see what had happened. His eyes went round as he took in the spectacle.

However, Foss' sudden entrance served to bring everyone else back to their senses. Everyone's gazes shifted to where the noise had originated from. The students saw an object they recognized, but one that shouldn't have existed in this world. Meanwhile, the knights had no clue what they were looking at. It was Sora's gun-sword.

White smoke rose from Kanshou's barrel. Sora had been kind enough to shoot one of his non-lethal rubber bullets. While they still didn't fully grasp what had happened, they realized Sora was the one who had attacked, and all cautiously put a hand over their own swords. They started radiating bloodlust, but a moment later an aura so oppressive that it was palpable snuffed out their aggression. It was powerful enough that the knights were forced back into their seats.

Sora: We told you to mind your manners.

Hajime: You're not getting a warning next time.

Even though Sora's Intimidation wasn't directed at them, Aiko and the students were trembling in fear. Sora slapped Kanshou down onto the table with an audible thunk. Just to drive the point home, he then went on to explain with finality what his stance was regarding his former classmates.

Sora: We don't really care about you guys. We have no intention of getting involved with your affairs, and I don't particularly want you to meddle in mine. Also, we've got no plans to tell you everything we've been up to, or what we're going to do from here on out. We only came here because the guild asked us to, and once our job here's done we're resuming our journey. So that'll be where we part ways. Let's just stay out of each other's way after that. You're welcome to do whatever you want, but just don't get in our way. If you try and fight me like that guy did... I might kill you. Got that?

His intimidating gaze seemed to say. No one said a word. He looked over at the knights, and it took every ounce of their strength to nod underneath Sora's Intimidation.

He then turned his gaze onto Aiko and the students. Aiko said nothing. Rather, she couldn't say anything. It wasn't the Intimidation. If she agreed to Sora's request, her student would vanish before she even had a chance to learn what had happened to him. Her pride as a teacher refused to allow that. Sora sighed, and released his Intimidation. Though Aiko hadn't said anything, Sora had guessed what she must be thinking. He decided it wasn't worth trying to force an answer out of her.

Nana, Taeko, Atsushi, and most of the other students were all trembling in fear, so he surmised they wouldn't be likely to bother him again. Only Yuka didn't seem afraid. She gazed at him with a mixture of confusion and a hint of sadness, but Sora ignored her.

Yuka:...

Sora:...

With the pressure gone, Chase and the other knights collapsed onto the table, panting. Aiko and the students weren't in as bad shape, but they also sank into their chairs gratefully. Sora paid them no mind and instead turned to Shea, who still looked a little down.

Sora: Hey, Shea. You still worrying about what he said? This is just how people are in the outside world. If you keep letting every little thing get to you, you'll just be depressed forever.

Shea: R-Right... I know that, but... I didn't know that humans thought my ears were disgusting...

Shea smiled bitterly while stroking her drooping ears. Aishia and Yue looked gently into her eyes and tried to console her.

Yue: Shea, your bunny ears are fluffy and cute.

Aishia: If anything, it's the most adorable thing in the world.

Seeing she still wasn't convinced, Sora followed up in an exasperated voice. Aishia's constant admonishment of Sora had definitely helped in softening his attitude toward Shea.

Sora: Look, those guys have been brainwashed by the Holy Church, so they're even more racist than most people. Don't most people like keeping rabbitmen as pets? If they enjoy keeping your kind around, they obviously can't hate your rabbit ears that much.

Shea: You think so? Uh, what do you think of my ears, Sora? Well?

Blushing slightly, Shea looked up at Sora, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. Her ears were twitching wildly, as if she wanted to know the answer, but was also afraid to hear it.

Sora: They're okay, I guess...

Sora spared them a single glance smiling genuinely. Shea was happy to hear that, but she wanted more than that, so her ears drooped again. However, Aishia's next words brought them back to their usual cheerful state.

Aishia: Sora really likes them. Sometimes, he'll even rub them when you're sleeping.

Sora: Aishia!? You promised not to tell her!

Hajime: Lucky bastard...

Shea: S-Sora... you really do like my ears. Ehehe.

Shea cupped her cheeks with her hands and squirmed in embarrassment. Meanwhile, the ears on top of her head were doing some kind of happy dance. The tense atmosphere that had pervaded the table seconds ago was nowhere to be seen, and everyone marveled at how quickly the mood had changed. After watching their romcom skit for a few minutes, Atsushi quietly mumbled a few words.

Atsushi: Huh, that's strange. I was scared to death of Yatagami a few seconds ago, but now I feel like murdering him...

Noboru: You too, huh? You know, those three are really cute... and they're both totally my type... It's absolute torture watching them flirt with another guy...

Atsushi nodded in agreement. The two friends clenched their fists, steeled their resolve, and exchanged glances.

Atsushi: Yatagami said he doesn't care about us anymore, right? But you know, I still want to ask him how to get the girls of this world to fall for you... I have to know! Noboru! Akito!

Akito: We'll brave the depths of hell together with you, brother!

The three males of Ai-chan's defense force exchanged a glance of solidarity before glaring at Sora, eyes burning with jealousy. The serious mood from earlier now completely dispelled, everyone returned to normal. Yuka, Taeko, and Nana all glared coldly at the boys.

Chase had taken his subordinates and was currently trying to treat David's injuries. Once he was sure David wasn't in any serious trouble, he turned to Sora and gave him his most charming smile. There was something he wanted to ask Sora at all costs.

Chase: Yatagami-dono— Is it alright if I call you that? I apologize for what my captain said. We are Aiko-san's guards, so when it comes to her safety, we sometimes get a little touchy. Please, could you find it in your heart to forgive him?

Sora(mind): So you just start trying to kill people when you get touchy?

Sora waved his hand dispassionately. Chase's eyebrow twitched at Sora's nonchalant dismissal, but he kept his business smile on. His attention was focused solely on the artifact Sora had placed on the table, and he quickly pressed on with his question.

Chase: Also, about that... artifact. I cannot fully grasp its function, but it appears to be quite powerful. It seems to be some form of long range weapon, but it is both faster and stronger than a bow. And yet, I could sense no magic nor did I see a magic circle anywhere. Just how does it work?

He was still smiling, but Chase's gaze was deadly serious. Since it didn't appear to use any mana, he was interested in the possibility of mass producing a weapon stronger than a bow that anyone could use. A weapon of that caliber could change the very nature of warfare. Chase suspected that even if the entire knight corps took Sora on, they wouldn't stand a chance against such an artifact, so he had to ask.

Sora:...

Sora glanced at Chase. Before he could say anything, an excited voice interrupted him. Atsushi.

Atsushi: Th-That's right, Yatagami. That's a gun, isn't it!? How on earth did you get something like that!?

Chase did a double-take.

Chase: Gun? Tamai, you know what that object is?

Atsushi: Huh? Yeah, of course I do. It's a weapon from our world.

Chase's eyes sparkled as the beginnings of an idea formed in his mind. He looked back at Sora.

Chase: I see. In other words, this isn't an artifact you found... but one that was created... And the creator must have been...

Sora: Me.

Sora replied casually. Chase had marked Sora as the secretive type, so he was surprised when he answered so readily.

Chase: I see it's no secret. Yatagami-dono, do you understand what that weapon is capable of? It could...

Sora: Change the nature of how war is fought in this world... right? Assuming you could mass produce it, anyway. I'm sure you're going to beg me to come back, or at least teach you how to make it, right? I refuse. Give it up.

He said with finality. It felt like he had prepared this speech beforehand. However, Chase refused to give up. That was how much the gun was worth.

Chase: But this could help make even our weakest soldiers overwhelmingly powerful. We could take advantage of our numbers in the coming war and drastically increase our chances of victory. Your help could save the lives of your friends and your teacher. Shouldn't you—

Sora: Say what you want, I won't help you guys. And if you try and steal it from me, I'll interpret that as an act of war. So if you want to go that route... you better be prepared to die before the real war starts.

Sora's words sent chills down Chase's spine, and he fell silent. Aiko chose that moment to butt in and try to smooth the situation over.

Aiko: Chase, I'm sure Yatagmi has his reasons, so please don't try and force him. Yatagami, you need to choose your words more carefully too. Handling things peacefully is important... Yatagmi, Nagumo, do you both really not plan on coming back?

Sora: That's right. We're leaving tomorrow to investigate, and once we finish our request, we'll leave.

Aiko: But why...

She gazed sadly at him, but Sora just stood up and prepared to leave. Hajime, Yue, Aishia and Shea had finished eating as well. Aiko tried to stop him, but he ignored her and headed up the stairs. A strange atmosphere descended upon those left behind.

Yuka: He really was alive.

A quiet voice broke through the silence, confirming the reality of what they'd just seen. The one who had spoken was Yuka. There was a conflicted expression on her face as she looked at the staircase.

Yuka: Kaori was right. Though, I guess they didn't need her help. In fact, they managed to get out all on his own.

Nana: Yukacchi... are you alright?

Taeko: Yuka...

Taeko and Nana were worried because Yuka had sounded like she was talking to herself. Yuka smiled bitterly at the two of them, then shrugged her shoulders.

Yuka: I'm fine... just really surprised. But it's not a bad thing, you know? Our classmate's still alive. That can only be a good thing, right?

Nana: Yeah, you're right! Though I still can't really believe it. I mean, you saw them! They felt like a totally different person!

Taeko: Indeed. How do I put this... Nagumo feels... more wild? You know? And Yatagami feels more calming than ever.

Taeko spoke haltingly. Atsushi and the other guys chose this moment to interject with their own opinions.

Atsushi: And they looks waaay stronger now. Like, holy crap.

Noboru: Tell me about it. Their hair color's changed, they acts different... Yatagami has a gun... and he's so intimidating now...

Akito: There's all that too, but... You know, he said he doesn't care about us anymore... He probably doesn't think too highly of us, huh?

The students were all glad that a classmate they'd thought long dead was actually alive. Even Taeko and Nana, who'd been terrified of him, still honestly thought so. Atsushi too. It felt like this huge weight had been lifted off their chest. If they had to sum it up in a word, they were "relieved."

However, there was still the inexplicable sense of discomfort that came with the fact that neither Sora nor Hajime hadn't seemed to care about them at all. Not only that, they had become far stronger and far sharper than before, and that had intimidated them.

Worse, they had always mocked them as the weakest member of their party, and none of them had stepped in to stop Hiyama's bullying. Finally, there had been that misfire incident that had led to their fall, so perhaps to them it was difficult to imagine their classmates liked them at all.

That had been part of why none of them had tried to stop Sora from leaving. The students all lapsed into silence again, thinking about their fear, as well as their inability to do anything to stop him. Once again, it was Yuka who broke the silence.

Yuka: Yatagami... I forgot to thank him.

The students all exchanged glances. They had been so focused on their indifference and how much they had changed, that they'd forgotten what was truly important... True, they hadn't directly had their lives saved like Yuka, but the students were only here right now because Sora and Hajime had risked their life to save them.

Yuka(mind): What happened to you, Yatagami. You used to be more approachable...

Yuka's conflicted expression had stemmed from that. Unlike the others, she had been worried about the fact that she'd failed to thank Sora again, that she hadn't really had an opportunity to during their conversation, and that even if she had it would be pointless to say anything now.

Aiko: Sonobe...

Aiko didn't know what else to say to her. She had been too shaken by the rapid pace with which events had unfolded, and Sora and Hajime's drastic change to be able to stop them from leaving. Aiko wasn't sure what she could say that would reach Sora now.

Their food had long since gone cold, but no one had any appetite now anyway. Everyone stared at the plates of cold food, thinking about Sora and Hajime's survival all the while.

(Timeskip)

That night.It was midnight, and everyone was so mentally and physically exhausted from the events of the day that they were fast asleep. Only Aiko was still awake. Aiko sat on the sofa, staring into the cold ashes as she thought about the day's events. The inside of her head was a whirling, disorganized mess.

Aiko(mind): Yatagami and Nagumo survived. But what was with their violent attitude? They must have endured a lot of hardships... And there was nothing I could do to help them.

She had caught a small glimpse of his power when he'd dispatched David. It was quite possible that they had needed to change that drastically to survive, but that only made it harder for Aiko when she thought about how they must have suffered, and how she had been unable to save them. She let out a long sigh. On the other hand, she remembered how they'd talked to those three girls, and was happy that they'd found comrades they could trust.

Aiko: I don't care, they're still coming with us!

Suddenly, a voice called out to her, despite the fact that she should have been alone in the room.

Sora: You sure make some interesting expressions, Sensei.

Aiko: Huh!?

Aiko jerked her head around. Sora was standing in the doorway, his arms folded across his chest shocking Aiko.

Aiko: Yatagami?! How?!

Sora: If you're asking how I got in, it's through the door.

Aiko: But I locked...

Sora: I'm a Synergist, remember? This isn't like one of the locks back on earth, it's pretty easy to pick.

For a few seconds Aiko just sat there, dumbstruck. Finally, she managed to calm herself down and glare angrily at Sora.

Aiko: It's rude to come into a girl's room so late at night, especially without knocking. You even picked the lock... Why?

The words "night visit" flashed through Aiko's mind, but she dismissed them instantly.

Sora(mind): How could you even think something like that about one of your own students?

Sora absorbed her rebuke and cut directly to the heart of the matter.

Sora: Sorry, I guess. I didn't want anyone else to know about my visit. There's a few things I need to tell you, Sensei, but I couldn't with those knights hanging around. They'd probably get violent if I mentioned it.

Aiko: Something you need to tell me? But didn't you say you don't care about us, Yatagami?

Aiko's eyes glimmered with hope. Perhaps he really would come back to them after all. Regardless, listening to her student's worries was the job of a teacher. Sadly, Sora's next words dashed her hopes.

Sora: We're still not going back with you...But first...

Sora smile genuinely. That smile is something Aiko recognized right away. The smile that Sora would always gave when they were back on earth. As if that tense atmosphere her gave off this afternoon was nothing but a fluke.

Sora: Long time no see, Sensei.

Aiko was surprised by the sudden change, but she didn't mind it at all. In fact, she returned the smile. She then made tear for herself and Sora, as the two of them sat on the sofa.

Aiko: Yeah. I'm glad you survive.

Sora: Yeah, a lot happened. Anyway, I wanted to tell you because I think you'd be able to handle it the most calmly, Sensei. The reason why we're not coming back with you. You're free to do what you want with the information after I tell you.

Sora then began his tale.

Sora: Well, first things is, The God of this world is demented.

Aiko: Huh? But don't they save us humans from the demons?

Sora: That's exactly what the Chruch wants you to know. Tell me. Why are the two races fighting to begin with? Every event that occurs is something that's been conspired. "Ehit". He and the other Gods use the races as chess pieces for their little game.

When Sora said that, Aiko looked at him shocked. She couldn't believe what she was hearing.

Aiko: Huh...?

Sora: Long ago, there was a powerful group of mortals that took note of this. They were known as the "Liberators". And they were capable of using Creation magic. They attempted to rebel, but lost. That was these "deities's " response.

Sora: Because they were liberated from God, they were branded as traitors. As a result, the very ones they sought to protect, were the very ones to betray them. The 8 liberators came to the conclusion they couldn't defeat theses deities. And so they decided to pass their power to future generations. That's how the Seven Great Labyrinths came about.

Aiko then noticed something flawed in his story.

Aiko: Wait, you said there were 8 Liberators. So how come there were only Seven Great Labyrinth?

Sora: You brought something quite interesting there sensei. That's what we're trying to figure out as well. Who is the last Liberator? Why didn't he or she made a Labyrinth like the other Seven? What happened to them? That's still a mystery to us as well.

Aiko was stunned speechless after she heard Sora's tale. She wasn't even sure how to process it. Frankly, it would probably be some time until she'd managed to digest it all.

Aiko: Yatagami... Where did you learn these stories?

Sora: I learned it along with Hajime when we fell into the bottom of the abyss. What you do with that information is up to you, Sensei. Whether you believe me or not is up to you.

Aiko: Y-Yatagami, does your journey have something to do with those... crazed gods?

Sora: Nah. After I fell into the abyss, I've grown to care less about what happens to this world. I just want to find a way home. That's the only reason I'm on this journey. I only told you because I figured you knowing might help sometime down the road.

Aiko was relieved that he wasn't sticking his head into anything dangerous, but she grew angry again when he talked about how willing he was to disregard the lives of strangers. That being said, she too valued the students' safety over the salvation of this world, so she didn't have the right to say anything. Instead, she changed topics.

Aiko: Do you have an idea of how you're going to get back?

Sora: Sorta. The labyrinths hold all the answers. If you guys are interested, you're welcome to explore them yourselves. After you clear the first hundred floors of the Orcus Labyrinth, you'll finally make it to the real deal. Though judging by what happened today, you'd all die instantly the moment you wandered in. If you can't even handle that level of Intimidation, you won't last five seconds.

Aiko thought back to the immense pressure Sora had radiated at dinner. She looked up at him with a mixture of sympathy and admiration, realizing how harsh a path he must have walked to survive in such a hellish place.

They both fell silent, and that silence stretched on for a few minutes. Finally, Sora turned back to the door. He'd told Aiko everything he'd come here to say. The words Orcus Labyrinth had stirred something in Aiko's memory though, and before he could leave she called out.

Aiko: Shirasaki still hasn't given up on you and Nagumo, you know! Yeagashi on the other hand seemed to have lost hope that you're still alive. But she still searching for you.

Sora:......

Sora stopped, his hand hovering over the door handle. Aiko continued talking.

Aiko: Everyone else thought you were dead, but only they didn't give up. They believed you two were still alive. Even now, they're fighting through the Great Orcus Labyrinth, looking for the two of you. Amanogawa and the others are only down there to get stronger, but they're with them because they're determined to find you.

Sora: Is Shirasaki and Yaegashi safe?

Seeing him show concern for someone else gave Aiko hope that the old Sora might still be alive somewhere deep inside.

Aiko: Y-Yes. The labyrinth is a dangerous place, but it seems the party inside is steadily progressing as they grow stronger. At least, that's what the letters they send us say. Are you worried about them? Yaegashi and Shirasaki were your friend, right, Yatagami?

Aiko's tone was cheerful.

Sora: I wouldn't exactly say that, but... if you guys exchange letters, you should let her know that their real enemy isn't the monsters in the labyrinth. It's one of their so-called comrades.

Aiko: Huh? What do you mean?

Sora: I could tell from Tamai's attitude. Sensei, everyone's saying me and Hajime fell during our fight with the Behemoth because of an accident, right?

Aiko: W-Well... yes. Someone's spell misfired and... So you do bear a grudge against everyone, Yatagmi?

Sora: Nah, I don't really care about revenge. Anyway, they're wrong. It wasn't a misfire. Someone was quite clearly aiming for me and Hajime.

Aiko: Huh? They were aiming for you?

Aiko repeated, confused. However, Sora continued mercilessly, adding another huge worry to Aiko's list of worries.

Sora: One of your student tried to kill us.

Aiko: Wha—!?

Aiko paled at his words.

Sora: The only thing I can think of that might have caused it was my relationship with Shirasaki, so whoever did it was probably someone jealous of us. If both Shirasaki and Yaegashi are still safe, you have to tell them to watch out. That person is probably going to try and make Shirasaki his by force.

That was all Sora said before leaving the room. A sudden chill crept into the room, and Aiko wrapped her arms around herself. One of her precious students had tried to kill a classmate. Worse, he'd been a coward that had stabbed Sora in the back. For Aiko, who wished to believe in all of her students, it was a hard pill to swallow, but she had no reason to believe Sora had lied to her. Her desire to believe in her students, and her belief that her students were all good people were warring with each other.

Aiko knew she wouldn't get any sleep that night.